Wakeman Township (part 14 of 21)

On the 4th of February, 1890, Mr. Bauer married Miss Augusta Kimball, who is a daughter of Philip and Caroline Kimball of New Haven township, and came here with her parents in February, 1886. Two sons have blessed Mr. and Mrs. Bauer's union: Carl, born January 11, 1891; and William, born November 30, 1892. Both live at home and assist their father on the farm. and Mrs. Bauer are adherents of the Lutheran faith and attend the services of the church of that denomination at Chicago, Ohio, taking an active part in its work, social as well as religious. Though foreign born, Mr. Bauer has participated in the life of the township, and, being recognized as a good citizen and able man, was elected to the office of road supervisor. Lack of familiarity with the English language, however, prevented his serving in this capacity, but he has the satisfaction of having received a palpab!e proof of the attitude of his neighbors toward him.

Sebastian B-Liedorepd

No resident of Huron county is more deserving of the proud American title of a self-made man than is Sebastian B. Liedorff, who from the age of twelve years has been dependent entirely upon his own resources and through industry, energy and perseverance, has gained a foremost place among the substantial farmers of this county. He is, moreover, entitled to special mention in this volume from the fact that throughout the pericd of the Civil war, he served his country valiantly and bravely, the story of his military record reading like a romance, with its thrilling adventures and deeds of heroism.

As the name indicates, Mr. Liedorff is of German origin, his birth having occurred in Hesse-Cassel, Germany, on the 6th of October, 1840. He is a son of Henry and Elizabeth Liedorff, also natives of the fatherland, where the mother's death cccurred in the early '40s. 1847, the father brought his family, which consisted of two sons and four daughters, our subject being the third in order of birth to America, settling first in Sandusky, Ohio. The father had foliowed the occupation of a potter in his native country, but upon his arrival in the United States, he was variously employed at any honest labor which he found to do. He was a sturdy and honest German, whose force of character and excellent traits of man- hood won for him the respect and esteem of his fellowmen and made him a valued citizen in any community. He passed away at his home in Erie county at the venerable age of eighty-four years.

Sebastian B. Liedorff was a little lad of seven years when he came with his father to America and he resided under the parental roof until twelve years old, at which early age, he left home to make his own way in the world and since that time he has been dependent entirely upon his own resources. He commenced his business career in the employ of N. C. Dildine, of Huron township, Erie county, a broom manufacturer, and in his home, Mr. Liedorff learned the broom-making trade. In return for his labor, he received six dollars per month and the opportunity of attending school during the winter seasons, while he performed various tasks about the place in payment of his board. He resided with Mr. Dildine's family for three years, each year his wages being increased a dollar per month.

When fifteen years of age, he turned his attention to agricultural pursuits, hiring as a farmhand to Thomas Hughes, a farmer of Huron township, Erie county, who paid him ten dollars per month. In the meantime, he had gained an excellent reputation throughout the community for he was energetic, industrious, willing and eager to do whatever was assigned him, while he was at all times actuated by a desire to succeed in the business world, and these characteristics made his services in constant demand. In the spring of 1861, he accepted a position with Mrs. Elizabeth Dale, a widow of Huron township, Erie county, as superintendent of her farm, receiving for his services thirteen dollars per month. The fact that he was called to responsible positions when not yet twenty years of age, is an indication that he not only proved capable and efficient in his work, but also perfectly reliable and trustworthy, enjoying the confidence of his employers.

In 1861, when the Civil war broke out Mr. Liedorff sought to enlist at the first call for troops, but was dissuaded, much against his will. When the second call came, however, he laid aside all personal and business considerations and on September 4, 1861, enlisted as a member of Company A, Third Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, serving until his term of enlistment expired. He then re-enlisted in the same company and regiment, serving until August 4, 1865, or until the close of hostilities. He entered the service as a private soldier, but his bravery and loyalty to duty won him promotion and he was mustered out with the rank of first duty sergeant. His regiment became a part of the Army of the Cumberland and engaged in all of the battles of that campaign. Liedorff participated in every battle where his regiment fought with the exception of the engagement at Perryville, when he was ill in the hospital at Nashville, having contracted typhoid fever. He won an excellent record for bravery and heroism and participated in many thrilling adventures. He was taken prisoner three different times, the first occasion being at the battle of Winchester, Tennessee, in August, 1863. He escaped however, and returned safely to his regiment. He was again taken prisoner at Pulaski, Tennessee, in September, 1863, and after about ten hours, together with some comrades, he again made his escape. His third capture occurred just after the battle of Stone River, while making a cavalry charge. He was wounded in the face and knocked from his horse, and then was taken prisoner by the enemy but was fortunate in again effecting an escape.

When his country no longer needed his services, Mr. Liedorff returned to Huron township, Erie county, on the 6th of August, 1865, and two days later again entered the employ of Mrs. Dale at a salary of one dollar per day. He was thus engaged for about a year, at the expiration of which period, he was employed by various people for about two years. Being desirous, however, that his efforts should more directly benefit himself, in 1867, he entered business on his own account as a manufacturer of brooms at West Huron and was thus actively identified with the industrial interests of that place for three years, or until his marriage, when, in connection with his broom-making, he also engaged in farming in West Huron. He continued to make that his place of residence for eleven years, and then, in 1883, he purchased a farm in Hartland township, Huron county, where he has since continued to reside. The farm consists of ninety-five acres of finely improved land, which is all under an excellent state of cultivation, to the operation of which Mr. Liedorff is directing his entire time and attention. Throughout his connection with agricultural interests, he has been very successful and now enjoys an abundance of this world's goods. He has accumulated a handsome competency, but every dollar he has earned at the cost of indefatigable energy, frugality and economy. A man of unusual business ability, he has combined the sturdy qualities of the Teutonic race with the progressive and enterprising traits of the American, with the result that he is today recognized as one of the foremost farmers and business men of his section of the county. In the midst of his farm, he has erected a fine residence, which is one of the best in the county. |

It was the 14th of February, 1872 that Mr. Liedorff was united in marriage to Miss Mary A. Coles, a daughter of Isaac and Sarah Coles, residents of Sandusky, Ohio. Unto this union, have been born five children, namely: George 5., a farmer of Hartland township; Henry J., following farming in the same township; Burt I., a thresher of Hartland township; Gus W., who is married and operates the home farm; and Lillie, who passed away in infancy. There are also four grandsons and three granddaughters in the family. The sons are all prosperous farmers and are men highly esteemed throughout the community.

Since age conferred upon him the right of franchise, Mr. Liedorff has been republican in politics, giving stanch allegiance to that party which was the support of the nation in her darkest hour, and in his citizenship, he has ever been as loyal to her interests as when he followed the old flag on southern battlefields. He cast his first vote for John Brough for governor of Ohio in 1863, when in line of battle, and his first presidential ballot was cast in favor of Abraham Lincoln in 1864 while a member of the Army of the Cumberland, stationed at Chattanooga, Tennessee. Since his first vote, he has supported every candidate for president and also for governor of Ohio on the republican ticket and although he has been deeply interested in the progress of the party, he has never been a politician in the sense of office seeking. He is a member of Townsend Post, No. 414, G. A. R., and has ever been active in the affairs of that body, having frequently served as delegate to various state and national encampments. With his old army comrades, he delights in recalling the experiences and adventures which occurred during the Civil war, and he also has many interesting experiences to relate concerning his boyhood days. He often tells of how, before he left home, his first em- ployer paid him six cents a day for his labor, which consisted of dropping corn in the corn planting season, and in addition, he received his dinners and suppers. His has been a remarkable career, the salient characteristics of which have been indomitable energy, unfaltering perseverance and strict integrity, and he stands today as a splendid example of the power and force of earnest effort, intelligently applied labor and honorable manhood. He has now reached the sixty-ninth milestone on life's journey, and he can look back over his past without regret and forward into the future without fear.

Almon B. Wood

Almon B. Wood, a farmer of Greenfield township, Huron county, owns eightyfour acres of land on which he lives and two hundred and ten acres in another farm in the same township. He was born in this township, September 29, 1845, and is the son of Lewis and Martha (Owen) Wood. The father was a son of jonah Wood, a farmer of New York state, who had served in the American Revolution. He was born in New York December 25th, 1800, and came to Ohio about the year 1833, the days of the pioneers, bringing his wife and four young children with him. The little party made the journey to Huron, Ohio, by boat, and then with a team of horses crossed the country to Greenfield township. What few household effects they had were brought with them to this new land. where they were much needed though they had greatly impeded their progress through the wilderness. Arriving in Greenfield township, Mr. Wood purchased the two hundred and ten acres of land which his son now owns from Jeremiah Cole, paying ten dollars per acre, but as Mr. Wood did not have the full amount and labor would be accepted as part payment, he agreed to thresh four hundred bushels of wheat for Mr. Cole. This was not done in the simple manner of today, but bv driving three-year-old colts back and forth over it, thus stamping out the grain from the husks. Having purchased his land, Mr. Wood began building a log house and barn, which were to be their buildings until better ones could be provided, and it was not until 1838, that the frame house was completed which remained his home until his death. He also bought the smaller farm on which his son now lives from a Mr. Patterson. On the Ist of June, 1823, Mr. Wood married Miss Martha Owen, a native of New York state, who was born April 24, 1802, and lived to see eighty-five years of activity pass over her head, her death occurring January 21, 1887, a little less than a year after the demise of her helpmeet. In their family were nine children: Jane, deceased, who was born November 24, 1823, and became the wife of Hiram Tooker; Samantha and Luantha, twins, who were born January 1825, while the former passed away July 23, 1892, and the latter became the wife of Ransom Mather, who died April 18, 1855; Halsy, who was born November 30, 1828, and died May 14, 1831; Mary, born May 23, 1832, who became the wife of George Dean, and died February 10, 1859; Jeremiah C., deceased, born January 10, 1834; Hannah S., who was born January 18, 1838, married Joseph Randall, and died September 2, 1907: Halsy, who was

Almon B. Wood has spent all his life in Greenfield township, having been reared on the farm and receiving his early education of the district schools, while for one winter he attended Oberlin College. In 1865, at a call for troops he enlisted in Company D of the One Hundred and Ninety-first Regiment of the Ohio Volunteer Infantry. The company was mustered in at Sandusky and sent to Camp Chase, Columbus, where Mr. Wood contracted the measles. Thus the time he might have spent in active service was of necessity passed in the hospital, and when he had sufficiently recovered to be returned home he was mustered out of the army. After this brief experience, he took up farming and identified himself with the affairs of the township, becoming in the subsequent years not only very prosperous, but also well known and highly respected by all with whom he has come in contact. He is commonly called "Bud Wood" and the familiarity of this cognomen bears evidence to the good will of his neighbors.

On the 6th of October, 1887, Mr. Wood married Miss Frances B. Graham, a daughter of Alexander and Mary (McCammon) Graham, of Greenfield township. Mr. Graham was born in Ireland in 1810 and at the age of eighteen came to this country with his parents. They settled in Huron county which remained Mr. Graham's home until his death. His wife, whom he married October 25, 1832, was born in Pennsylvania, April 22, 1813, and lived until February 11, 1899, having reared the following children: Alex, who passed away June 2, 1887 ; John, deceased; Samuel, deceased; Eliza; Martha; Mollie; Robinson; Jennie; George; William ; Frances B.; Ida; and Charles. To Mr. and Mrs. Wood have been born five children: Glenn A., born June 12, 1890; Hazel B., born October 5, 1801; Bernice M., born September 14, 1893; Martha G., born June 9, 1895; and one who died in infancy. Mrs. Wood is a member of the Congregational church of Steuben, Ohio, and is active in its work.

Mr. Wood affiliates politically with the democratic party and served as constable for one term. He is a man of education and of wide interests, blessed with the capacity of making and retaining a large number of friends. Those who know him are unanimous in their admiration of him and do not begrudge him the success which has made possible his retirement from the active pursuit of farming.

Charles E. Parmelee

Charles E. Parmelee, a well known and successful farmer and dairyman of Ridgefield township, where he owns an excellent farm of eighty-six acres, was born at Kent, Portage county, Ohio, on the 4th of April, 1850, his parents being John F. and Mary E. (Tilton) Parmelee. The father passed away at Kent in the ycar 1855, leaving a family of three children, namely: Charles E., of this review; Frank, who is now deceased ; and George. When our subject was about eleven years of age the mother was again married, her second union being with Allen B. Lindsley, of Huron county, who brought the family to his farm in Ridge-

The gentleman whose name initiates this review obtained his education in the district schools and since putting aside his text-books has given his attention to the pursuits of farming and dairying. With the exception of thirteen years, he has made his home on the farm where he resides from the age of eleven years and the property is now in his possession. It is a rich and productive tract of land comprising eighty-six acres and in addition to cultivating the cereals best adapted to soil and climate, he also conducts the Forest Grove Dairy, owning a large number of fine cattle. In all of his business affairs, he is alert and enterprising, meeting with the measure of success which always rewards earnest, persistent and well directed labor. His wife is the owner of a farm of one hundred and thirteen and a half acres in Hartland township. In March, 1877, he removed to that township, where he made his home until 1885, and then on account of ill health, he gave up farming for a time and resided in New London, büt in 1890, he returned to the farm which is his home at the present time.

On the 1st of January, 1877, Mr. Parmelee was united in marriage to Miss Harriett E. Brightman, a daughter of Pardon B. and Lucretia (Jones) Brightman, of Sherman township, this county. Unto them have been born two children, as follows: Nellie, who gave her hand in marriage to James W. Candler; and Mildred P., who is attending school. Mr. Parmelee is a valued member of the Congregational church and his many sterling: traits of character have won him an extensive circle of friends throughout the community where he has now resided for almost a half century.

Dr. Ephraim Alford Smedley, a successful and well known representative of the medical fraternity in Huron tounty, has continuously practiced his profession in North Fairfield since the fall of 1883. He is a native of Brewerton, New York, his birth having there occurred on the r2th of October, 1857. His paternal grandparents, Dr. Chester and Ann (Landon) Smedley, were both natives of Connecticut. The maternal grandfather of our subject was Daniel Light. Lindorf Smedley, the father of Dr. E. A. Smedley, was born in Litchfield, Connecticut, on the r2th of September, 1823, and when three years of age was taken by his parents to Brewerton, New York. On the 29th of October, 1856, in Madison county, that state, he was united in marriage to Miss Catherine Light. In 1867 he came to Huron county, Ohio, taking up his abode at Townsend on the 20th of March of that year. Here he was successfully identified with general agricultural pursuits throughout his remaining days, being widely recognized throughout the community as a most substantial and respected citizen. It was on the r2th of February, 1903, that he was called to his final rest. Unto him and his wife were born the following children: Ephraim Alford, Chester D., Abbey C. and James, all natives of Brewerton, New York.

Dr. E. A. Smedley obtained his preliminary education in the common schools of this county and subsequently entered the Ohio Normal University at Ada, pursuing his studies there during the years 1875, 1876 and 1877. Having determined upon the practice of medicine as a life work, he then entered the Miami Medical College at Cincinnati, Ohio, from which institution he received his degree of M. D. in 1883. In the fall of the same year he located for practice at North Fairfield, where he has since remained as an active and successful representative of his chosen calling, enjoying a lucrative and constantly growing patronage.

On the rith of August, 1885, Dr. Smedley was united in marriage to Miss Idalia Whitney, whose birth occurred in East Townsend, Huron county, Ohio, on the 5th of May, 1856. Her parents, Charles and Roxanna (Palmer) Whitney, were natives of Wilton, Connecticut, and China, New York, respectively, the former born on the 23d of September, 1812, and the latter November 12, 1816. Their children were six in number, as follows: Idalia, now Mrs. Smedley ; Palmer; Ann; Calvin; John L.; and Richard B. The paternal grandparents of Mrs. Smedley were Henry and Lucy (Grummond) Whitney, natives of Connecticut. Their children were as follows: Henry Fitch, Charles, William, Sally Ann, Esther, Hannah, Jeremiah, John, Lucretia and George. The maternal grandparents of Mrs. Smedley were Lory and Elizabeth (La Mott) Palmer, natives of the Empire state, who reared the following children: John, Mary Ann, Sarah and Roxanna. Dr. and Mrs. Smedley have two children, namely: Roxanna Palmer, whose birth occurred November 15, 1886, and who is now in the Lakeside Training School for Nurses at Cleveland, Ohio; and Karl Lindorf, whose natal day was February 23, 1895.

Dr. Smedley is now serving as health officer of Fairfield township. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Christian church. His life has been actuated at all times by high and honorable principles, manifested in his professional labors and in his private life. Anything which tends to bring to man the key to that complex mystery which we call life is of interest to him, and he has been a close and discriminating student of the science of medicine, realizing fully the obligations that devolve upon him in the practice of his chosen calling.

Benjamin Barnes

Benjamin Barnes, who has been connected with railroad business for more than thirty years, has, during that time, gained a most creditable record for himself and is numbered among the well known and prominent citizens of this community. One of Ohio's native sons, he was born on the 8th of July, 1855, a son of Robert and Elizabeth (Fields) Barnes. The family has long been represented in this country, members of the name having come from England, in the early part of the seventeenth century.

The father of our subject, who was born 1706, was a native of Virginia and came to Ohio from the District of Columbia in 1828. He was a painter and glazier by trade and served as a soldier in the War of 1812, assisting in the defense of the capitol and, after its destruction, aided in its reconstruction along the line of his trade. After his removal to Columbus, Ohio, however, he was identified with the butchering business, being thus engaged until 1856, in which year he removed with his family to Wakeman, where he operated a mill for a short time. He again entered the butchering business and was thus connected until his death, which occurred in August, 1874. A man of strong convictions, he based his opinions upon his own judgment rather than upon what others thought and, while he possessed a most positive disposition, he nevertheless was quick to forgive when proper apology was offered. He was married twice, Miss Elizabeth Fields becoming his second wife. She passed away July 3, 1905, and they were both laid to rest in the Wakeman cemetery. In their family were seven children, namely: Nimia, Morris P., Benjamin, Robert, Alice, Albert and Anna, the last two passing away in infancy while the other five still survive.

Benjamin Barnes, whose name introduces this sketch, was reared under the parental roof and attended the schools of Wakeman in the acquirement of an education. He remained at home until twenty years of age, in the meantime assisting his father in the butchering business. In 1876, he entered the railroad service and has been engaged in this line of work to the present time. He entered the employ of the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railroad in 1879, and has been connected with that company for thirty years, operating on the Cleveland & Toledo division. He has been eminently successful in his relations with railroad business, being promoted from one position to another until he is today serving as passenger conductor, having acted in that capacity since 1800. Throughout his entire connection with the railroad, he has been most careful and has never had a wreck, has never been seriously injured and none of his crews has ever been injured, a record which is indeed most unusual.

Mr. Barnes was united in marriage on the 20 of November, 1874, to Miss Sarah M. Flower, a daughter of Isaac and Ann (Stratton) Flower, natives of England. Upon coming to America in 1851, her parents settled in Oswego, New York, where they remained for one year, and then, continuing their westward journey, located at Cooks Corners, in Huron county, in 1852. 1856, they removed to Clarksfield, four years later to East Townsend and in 1865 came to Wakeman. They resided here until 1870, when they removed to Missouri, where they remained two years, returning to Wakeman in 1872. Throughout these years Mr. Flower had been engaged in the harness business, being a manufacturer and dealer, but in 1874, he became identified with the hotel business in this city, being thus connected until 1894. In the latter year, he retired from active life while his demise occurred on the 13th of January, 1903, when he had reached the venerable age of ninety-three years. His wife had passed away December 8, 1806. In their family were five children, Emma, Alfred, Anna, Sarah and Frederick, all of whom survive with the exception of Anna, who died in infancy.

The home of Mr. and Mrs. Barnes has been blessed with one son and one daughter, William O. and Lulu May. The latter is now the wife of James I. Seybert, of this city, and they have one son, Howard Benjamin, William O. Barnes is also married and lives in Toledo. He has followed in his father's footsteps and is a conductor on the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railroad.

Barnes is well known fraternal circles, holding membership in Gibson Lodge, No. 301, E. & A. M., and belongs to Webb Chapter, R. A. M., of Cleveland, Ohio, while he has taken the thirty-second degree of the Scottish Rite in Masonry. He likewise is a member of the Order of Railway Conductors. He is a stalwart champion of the democracy and in former years has been very active and influential in local politics, having frequently represented his party as a delegate at various district, county and state conventions. He is intensely loyal and public spirited in his citizenship, aiding in all movements and measures which have for their object the substantial and permanent upbuilding and improvement of the community. He is a great athlete, enthusiastic in the matter of outdoor sports and takes especial delight in fishing and hunting, frequently enjoying, in the company of other kindred spirits, a ten-days' trip into the woods and along the streams in the pursuit of his favorite pastimes. a young man, he was particularly fond of baseball and yet maintains a keen interest in this national game, possessing considerable skill himself in this line and often joining in games with local teams. The Barnes home is modern and attractive in its architecture and surroundings and is a favorite resort with a host of friends to whom its cordial hospitality is freely extended. and Mrs. Barnes are genial, companionable people, who not only understand how to enjoy life themselves, but possess the happy faculty of making others enjoy it also, the influence and good fellowship of their home being a potent factor in the social circles of the community.

William H. Kiefer

William H. Kiefer is well known not only in Norwalk, but in the surrounding country as well, having been engaged in the undertaking business here since 1807. He is a native son of this city, his birth having here occurred May 2, 1874. His father, Robert Kiefer, was born in Germany and when a young man emigrated to the United States 1860. He at once made his way to Norwalk engaged in the undertaking and furniture business, continuing in the same until his death, which occurred in 1889. His wife, Mrs. Mary Kiefer, then succeeded to the business, the fitm name being M. Kiefer, and thus continuing until 1896, when the establishment was destroyed by fire.

After leaving school, William H. Kiefer was employed in the undertaking department of his mother's business, becoming thoroughly trained in that line of work, and was ready to take charge of the business on his own account after the fire in 1896. He then opened an undertaking establishment and has thus been identified with the business interests cf the city to the present time. He is a graduate in embalming of four different colleges and was the first to advocate the law requiring an examination for embalmers. He is a charter member of the National Association of Embalmers, which was organized in 1896, and it was through the efforts of this society, that a state board was appointed for examination of embalmers. Interested in everything that tends to promote his knowledge of the business to which he is devoting his attention, Mr. Kiefer today stands among the foremost undertakers, not only in his home city but throughout the state of

Mr. Kiefer is also a prominent figure in the public affairs, being an ardent supporter of the democratic party. He served on the city council four years, being the youngest member of that body. He has also for the past six years been chief deputy of the Huron county board of supervisors of election, while for several years he has served on both county, central and city committees. He is regarded as a leader in democratic circles and his opinions carry weight and influence among his fellow citizens.

Equally prominent in fraternal circles, Mr. Kiefer was one of the organizers of the Knights of Columbus in Norwalk, of which he is a member, and he also holds membership with the Catholic Order of Foresters, of which he has been chief for the past eight years. He is also identified with the Elks, the Catholic Mutual Benefit Association, the Fraternal Order of Eagles and the Concordia Society. Courteous and affable, he is popular among a wide circle of friends, while as a funeral director, he has won a wide reputation.

William B. McCullow, the mayor of Greenwich village who has engineered many of the noticeable municipal improvements here, was born February 22, 1870, in Fairfield township, and is the son of Joseph Edward and Lucena (Baker) McCullow. The mother was born in Huron county, Ohio, but the father's birthplace was Tuckerton, New Jersey, though he was only four years old when brought by his parents to Ohio, in 1830. His father was a farmer and became prominent and influential in the community in which he lived. Joseph Edward McCullow also followed the life of a farmer and besides owning the old homestead, acquired considerable property in Greenwich village. He was a man active in local affairs and filled many of the offices of township and village with distinction, winning for himself a reputation for sterling integrity. The had a family of two sons, Charles and William B., both of whom are living, the former being a merchant in Greenwich. On the Ist of April, 1901, he completed his earthly course, and his widow, who resides in Greenwich, still survives him.

As the family became residents of Greenwich village in 1877, William B. Mc- Cullow received his education in the schools there, though he was prevented from graduation by ill health. Upon leaving school, he clerked for his brother Charles in a clothing store for a period of seven years, at the end of which time he took up the trade of watch and clock repairing and investigated the jewelry business. In 1898, he engaged in the latter for himself, succeeding W. B. Burt, of Greenwich, and also offered his services as a graduate optician, for he had completed the requisite course at the South Bend College of Optics. His stock of jewelry is both large and in good taste, comparing very favorably with that of the best firms in larger towns, and in his business dealings has been found both honorable and desirous of satisfying his customers. Besides being a good man of affairs, he is also a public-spirited citizen, and has, among other things,

In politics, Mr. McCullow is a republican and is an active representative of the party. For a period of seven years, he served as clerk of the village, and the record of his work was so satisfactory, that in 1907, he was the people's choice for mayor, an office he holds to the present. His administration has been active in promoting public improvements of a substantial kind, in establishing a sewerage system and in inaugurating street paving, which, by the close of 1909, will extend through a full mile of the village streets, and in advancing other matters that make for the material prosperity of the village.

On the 29th of March, 1896, was solemnized the marriage of Mr. McCullow and Miss Felicia Mary Kraft, a daughter of John and Barbara Mary (Bauer) Kraft, of Galion, Ohio. Mr. Kraft was a retired business man of that city and never became a resident of Huron county. To Mr. and Mrs. McCullow was born one child, who did not survive the period of infancy.

In the O. K. Lodge, No. 616, of the Knights of Pythias, Mr. McCullow is an ardent worker, and in it has filled most of the chairs. He is a popular man who makes friends easily and is present at most of the lodge meetings. His principal relaxation from the cares of business and administration, however, is obtained in the enjoyment of a day's hunting and fishing, when opportunity affords, but he is not a faddist; on the contrary an enterprising business man and an able executive, fully imbued with the spirit of public progress, which he does all in his power to promote, realizing that a community must keep abreast of the time, or else slip to one side and be wholly engulfed in the world struggle. Under the wise guidance of Mrs. McCullow, who by the way is a member of the German Reformed church, devoted to the performance of good works, and a member of the Twentieth Century Reading Club, the McCullow home occupies a prominent place in the social and intellectual life of the village. A woman of culture and refinement, she is an able assistant to her husband and is fully in sympathy with his plans for the advancement of the community.

Oliver O. Underwood

Oliver O. Underwood, numbered among the active and prosperous farmers of Fairfield township, owns and cultivates one hundred acres of rich and productive land, which is now highly improved in accordance with the most modern methods of farming. His entire life has been passed in Huron county, for he is one of the native sons, his birth having occurred in Greenwich township, January I4, I862. He represents one oí the old families of this part of the state, his parents being Levi and Catherine (McCullough) Underwood, the former a native of Pennsylvania. Their family numbered three sons and two daughters: Oliver, James, Charles, Ola and Eva.

In the usual manner of farm lads Oliver O. Underwood spent his youthful days. As soon as old enough to handle the plow, he took his place in the fields and was there busily emploved from early spring planting until crops were harvested in the late autumn. He was thus carefully trained in the occupation which he has made his life work. In early manhood, he also learned the carpenter's trade and engaged in that pursuit for a time but gives his entire attention to farming at present. His educational privileges were those afforded by the public schools and reading and observation have also largely broadened his knowledge.

On the 24th of December, 1887, Mr. Underwood was united in marriage to Miss Anna Gibson, who was born in Greenwich township, June 13, 1866, and is a daughter of Jerome and Hulda (Healy) Gibson. The father was born in 1840 and was a son of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Gibson, whose other children were: Mary, Edward, Lena and Isaac. Having arrived at years of maturity, Jerome Gibson wedded Hulda Healy, whose birth occurred in 1843. She was one of the children of Jacob and Anna (Brooks) Healy, and her sisters are Edith, Elizabeth and Sarah. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Jerome Gibson there were born three daughters and two sons: Anna, Samuel, Carrie, Fletcher and Jennie. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Underwood has been blessed with nine children: Clinton, Harry, Arlie, Ruth, Hulda, Eva, Blanche, Charlie and Ralph. The family home is on a farm of one hundred acres in Fairfield township, which is the property of Mr. Underwood. There are good buildings upon the place, furnishing ample shelter to grain and stock and these are surrounded by well tilled fields. The latest improved machinery is used in carrying on the work of the farm and the entire property presents a neat and attractive appearance. Mr. Underwood gives his political allegiance to the democratic party and keeps well informed concerning the leading questions and issues of the day, but the honors and emoluments of office have no attraction for him, as he prefers to give his undivided attention to his business affairs. In their capable management, he is meeting with success and providing his family with many of the comforts and some of the luxuries of life.

Rundell Beecher Palmer

Rundell Beecher Palmer, well known as one of the progressive, prosperous and representative agriculturists of Huron county, owning five hundred acres of valuable land, was born August 28, 1832, in Fitchville, Ohio. He represents one of the oldest New England families. The Fortune which sailed for America soon after the arrival of the Mayflower numbered among its passengers the first Palmer in this country, and the family became connected by marriage with the Pilgrims who sailed on the Mayflower in 1620. It was in 1621 that William Palmer left Noddinghamshire, and on the Fortune crossed the Atlantic to Salem, Massachusetts. He afterward lived at Plymouth and Duxbury, Massachusetts. (2) Walter Palmer, who also came from England, landed at Salem in 1629. He went to Charlestown, afterward to Rehobeth, Massachusetts, and finally to Pawcatuck, now Stonington, Connecticut. His descendants are largely found in Connecticut and New York. (3) Abraham Palmer sailed from England in 1628 and landed at Salem, Massachusetts, but afterward removed to Barbadoes. (4) Thomas Palmer, in the vessel Expectation from Ipswich, England, landed on American shores in 1635. He resided at Boston and at Bowby, Massachusetts, and one branch of his descent found at Norwich, New London county, Connecticut. (5) William Palmer, of Newburg, was made a freeman in 1638. He settled at Hampton, New Hampshire, and his descendants are found throughout New England and New York. (6) John Palmer sailed as a passenger on the Elizabeth in 1634 and settled at Hingham, Massachusetts. (7) Lieutenant William Palmer, who was made a freeman at Varmouth, Massachusetts, July 7, 1636, settled at Long Island. (8) William Palmer went to Virginia and his descendants are scattered throughout the south. The Palmers of the present day are principally descended from Walter Palmer (2), Thomas Palmer (4), and William Palmer (5). Walter Palmer, born in 1598, married Rebecca Short and their children were: John, Grace, Jonas, William, Hannah, Elihu, Nehemiah, Moses, Benjamin, Gresham, Rebecca and Elizabeth. Of this family Nehemiah Palmer married Hannah Stanton and their children were: Lieutenant Joseph, Elihu, Jonathan, Daniel, Nehemiah and Hannah. Of these Lieutenant Joseph Palmer married Frances Prentice and their children were: Deacon Joseph, Hannah, Benjamin, Sarah and Jonathan. The first named, Deacon Joseph Palmer, wedded Mary Palmer and their children were: Sarah, Mary, Joseph, Francis, Amos, Moses, Hannah and Phoebe. The eldest son, Joseph Palmer, married Catharine Coats and to them were born: Joseph, William, Phoebe, Captain Amos, Elijah, Elisha, Jonathan, Hannah, Benjamin, David and Thomas. Of these Elijah Palmer married Lucretia Palmer and for his second wife a Miss Powell. His children were: Gresham, Doley, Rebecca, Phoebe, Joseph, Elisha, Lydia, Benjamin, Jesse and Hulda. Hulda Palmer married Stephen Palmer and their children were: Charles H., Lucretia, Sylvanus B., William L., Noves G., Henrietta, Marietta, Andrew, Priscilla, Martin, George W. and John Jay.

At present it is impossible to trace the ancestry down from Hulda Palmer to Seeley Palmer, the father of our subject. He was born in Greenwich, Connecticut, November 24, 1797, and grew to manhood in that state, there learning the carpenter's trade under Levi Palmer. About 1819 in company with his five brothers he came to Huron county, Ohio, where they took up land from the government, and, in following his trade, Seeley Palmer built the first courthouse here and also of the first buildings in Norwalk and also in Fitchville. In addition to this he also cleared and improved his farm of one hundred and sixty acres and erected and operated the first sawmill in this part of the state. On the 14th of June, 1826, he was united in marriage to Miss Nancy Abigail Post, and unto them were born the following children who are still living: Rundell Beecher ; Hubbard Dennison; Lucy ; Eliza Ann; Nannie; and Seeley Burdette. Those of the family now deceased are: Delia; William; Hannah A.; and Julia Blanch. The wife and mother was a daughter of Ashabel Post, whose ancestors came from Holland to America, settling at New York city, then known as New Amsterdam. Ashabel Post was a sea captain in early life and later built a large wharf at Middletown, Connecticut, becoming extensively engaged in the shipping business at that place. He was twice married and by his first union had two children, Ashabel, Jr., and Betsey. There were also two children by the second marriage, William and Nancy A. Mr. Palmer's parents both lived to an advanced age and at their death were laid to rest in Fitchville cemetery.

During his youth Rundell Beecher Palmer was engaged in agricultural pursuits. After he had attained his majority he made arrangements for having a home of

Throughout his entire life R. B. Palmer has carried on general farming with the exception of three years spent in the service of his country in the Civil war. He enlisted in the Seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry, which was assigned to the First Brigade of the Second Division of the Twelfth and Twentieth Army Corps. He joined the regiment as a private and saw much hard service. His first engagement was at Cross Lane and he was also at Blue Gap. He likewise participated in the battle of Winchester and in others of equal importance, and he was in the telegraph department before and after the war closed. He received many close calls while in the service but never sustained any severe wounds. With the exception of the time spent at the front he has always carried on general farming and he now occupies and owns the old homestead, comprising about four hundred acres of rich and arable land. The place is under a high state of cultivation, responding readily to the care and labor which Mr. Palmer bestows upon it. He follows the most modern methods in his farm work and still gives active supervision to his place although he leaves the actual work of the fields to others, for he has now reached the seventy-seventh milestone on life's jonrney. His sister, Miss Eliza Ann Palmer, resides with him.

In his religious faith Mr. Palmer is a Congregationalist. His political belief accords with the principles of the republican party and he is an active worker in its ranks but has continuously declined to become a candidate for office although often solicited to do so. His long residence in the county has made him widely known and his many substantial qualities have gained for him the high regard in which he is uniformly held.

Leonard A. Vail, who is engaged in general farming in Bronson township, lives on the old Vail homestead, comprising one hundred and fifty-two acres of well improved and vaiuable land. He was born on this farm, January 25, 1850, his father, David Vail having located on this land in 1835, it being then wild and unimproved. He was born in Newfield, Tompkins county, New York, October 8, 1811, and in pioneer times, he made his way to the Buckeye state, locating first in Elyria. Later he came to Huron county and located on a farm, erecting the buildings thereon himself, as he had previously learned and followed the carpenter's trade. He was married December 7, 1845, in Fairfield, Huron county, to Miss Almira Adams, who was born at Symphronia, Cayuga county, New York, and by this union, there were born four sons and one daughter, namely: David W., Leonard A., John J., Alice and Charles W. The wife and mother departed this life January 5, 1887, and on the roth of April, 1888, Mr. Vail wedded Ellen Jeanette Sweet, by whom he had one son, Adelbert S., who is mentioned elsewhere in this work, and in which connection a more complete record of the father is given. David Vail passed away at his home in Olena, in 1907, when more than ninetv-five

Leonard A. Vail was reared to farm life, assisting in the operation of the home farm during the period of his boyhood and youth. He began his education in the district schools near his father's home and later spent one term in the schools at Milan. With the exception of four years spent in the mercantile business in Olena, Mr. Vail has always followed farming and is today the owner of the old Vail homestead, comprising one hundred and fifty-two acres. He is very methodical in carrying on his work and each year harvests good crops, for which he finds ready sale on the market. He has always taken an active interest in public improvement.

In 1873 Mr. Vail was united in marriage to Miss Adelia Robinson, by whom he had one son, William D., and after her death, which occurred May 6, 1878, he was again married, his second union being with Miss Elvira Taintor, who was born in Huron county, March 27, 1850. Her parents were Chauncey and Cordelia R. (Phillips) Taintor, the former born in Brighton, Monroe county, New York, June 21, 1817, while the birth of the latter occurred in: Bristol, Ontario county, New York, May 29, 1819. Mr. and Mrs. Taintor were married June 24, 1841, and reared a family of four daughters, of whom Mrs. Vail is the youngest. Mr. Taintor came of Scotch ancestry, while his wife was of English descent. He followed farming in Huron county and died August 14, 1849, while Mrs. Taintor departed this life November 24, 1861.

Mr. Vail is independent in politics, supporting only the men whom he deems best fitted to fill official positions, regardless of party ties. He has ever taken a lively interest in all public affairs, lending his aid and influence in the cause of every good movement and heartily promoting the progress and advancement of his community.

Daniel C. Clary, operating a farm of two hundred and eighty acres in Ridgefield township, where he has continued to reside from his birth to the present time, was born the 9th of January, 1858, a son of Homer C. and Laura A. (Humphreys) Clary. Colonel Humphreys, the maternal great-grandfather of our subject, served on the staff of General George Washington, and Daniel C. Clary now has in his possession a watch which was presented to the Colonel by Washington. Daniel Clary, the grandfather of the gentleman whose name initiates this review, made his way from the state of New York to Huron county, Ohio, about 1820, being the first man to clear land in this section. His death here occurred when he had attained the age of sixty-six years, the community thus losing one of its most respected and honored pioneer settlers. He had two sons: Homer C., the father of Daniel C. Clary; and George W., who is deceased.

The birth of Homer C. Clary occurred on Christmas day of 1825, in an old log house on the farm where our subject now resides. He continued to make his home on this place throughout his entire life and followed agricultural pursuits as a means of livelihood. He was well known and highly esteemed as a worthy native son of this county and his demise was the occasion of deep and widespread regret. It was in April, 1900, that he was called to his final rest. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Laura A. Humphreys and is a native of Guilford, Connecticut, came to this state with her parents in early life, the journey being made by canal boat. They settled in Huron, Erie county, where the marriage of Miss Humphreys and Homer C. Clary was subsequently celebrated. Their union was blessed with six children, as follows: George, who has passed away; Ella, who is the wife of F. C. Atherton; David: Daniel C., of this review; and Edward and Frank, both of whom are graduates of the state university at Ann Arbor, Michigan. Edward is now a civil engineer of Iowa and Frank is practicing law in New York city. The mother of these children still survives at the age of eighty years and resides on her farm of two hundred and eighty acres in Ridgefield township, which is being cperated by her son, Daniel C.

In the acquirement of an education Daniel C. Clary attended the district schools and also the public schools at Monroeville. He took up the study of telegraphy in early life but throughcut practically his entire business career has given his attention to the work of general farming with excellent success. On the 25th of Janu- 1884, he was joined in wedlock to Miss Mary E. Hill, a daughter of John R. and Mathilde (Stephley) Hill, of New York. By this union there is one son, Fred H., at home. Mr. Clary has a very wide and favorable acquaintance throughout the community in which his entire life has been spent and well deserves mention in this volume as a worthy representative of an honored picneer family that has been identified with the agricultural interests of this county from the period of its earliest settlement to the present time.

August P. Horn

August P. Horn, living on one of the finest farms in Lyme township, Huron county, was born in Peru township, this county, February 6, 1856, a son of William and Margaret (Boehler) Horn, natives of Germany. They crossed the Atlantic in 1849, locating in Huron county, Ohio, where they became identified with the early settlers of this district. At first they rented land and then, in 1856, purchased one hundred and five acres in Peru township. When the land came into their possession it was still wild but with untiring energy and determination Mr. Horn set about to clear the land and erected a house for his family. Here the remaining days of Mr. and Mrs. William Horn were spent, his death occurring in 1883, when sixty-four years of age, while the latter survived until 1003, passing away at the age of eighty-three years. Their family consisted of nine children, namely : Louise and August, both of whom were torn and died in Germany ; William, who lives in Topeka, Kansas; Henry, who died in childhood; Emma, the widow of Carl Ohlamacher, now residing in Columbus; Louise, the widow of Charles Foust, residing in Monroeville: August P., of this review; Henry, who lives the old homestead ; and Hermina. Both parents were consistent members of the Lutheran church and passed away in the faith of that denomination.

August P. Horn, who has always resided in this county, attended the district schools of his native township in the acquirement of an education, while the periods of vacation were spent in the work of the fields, learning lessons concerning the value of industry and perseverance, He chose as a life work the occupation to which he had reared and in 1881 he came to this township and located upon the farm which is now his home but was then the property of his father. He operated this place as a renter for some time and subsequently purchased it; directing his energies toward the cultivation of the fields. In the meantime he has made most extensive improvements upon the land, erecting in 1887 a fine, large residence and commodious and substantial barns and outbuildings, the place being equipped with all the accessories of a model farm of the twentieth century. He has carried on his agricultural pursuits along strictly business lines, has ever been most progressive and up-to-date in his methods, and his farm today is one of the finest to be found in the county.

On February 10, 1881, Mr. Horn was united in marriage to Miss Lydia Erf, a daughter of Phillip and Dorothy (Heyman) Erf and a native of Peru township, Huron county, her birth having occurred November 15, 1858. Unto this union were born four children: Dorothy, now a practicing physician of Bellevue, who was graduated from the Homeopathic College of Cleveland and is also a postgraduate of the Philadelphia Hospital; Lewis, attending the Chicago Veterinary College; Ella, who is studying at the Providence Hospital at Sandusky, Ohio, for the profession of a trained nurse; and Mabel, who is at home. are graduates of Monroeville high school. On May 3, 1906, the wife and mother was called to her final rest, and on the rst of September, 1609, Mr. Horn was again married, his second union being with Mrs. Louisa C. Winslow, of Ridgefield township, Huron countv.

Mr. Horn holds membership with the Knights of the Maccabees and his political allegiance is given to the democratic party, although the honor« and emoluments of office have no attraction for him, preferring as he does to concentrate his energies and attention upon his private business interests. He is not remiss, however, in the duties of citizenship, but takes a deep interest in all things which are matters of civic virtue and civic pride. He has spent his entire life in this county, where he has gained a wide acquaintance, and the fact that he is most respected where he is best known indicates that his salient characteristics are in accord with the principles of honorable and upright manhood.

Thomas Leak

Thomas Leak is numbered among Hurcn county's retired farmers, his success in former years enabling him now to enjoy a rest which he has truly earned and richly deserves. He is still the owner of a valuable farm property of one hundred and fourteen acres in Ripley township but he leaves the care and cultivation of this to others and makes his home in North Fairfield. He has passed the seven- ty-first milestone on life's journey, for his birth occurred in Lincolnshire, England, May 8, 1838. He is a son of John and Mary Ann (Westerdale) Leak, in whose family were six sons, the others being John, William, Henry, Edward and George.

Thomas Leak spent the first twelve years of his life in the land of his nativity and then accompanied his parents on their emigration to the new world. They were attracted by the favorable reports which they heard concerning the business opportunities and advantages in the United States and after living for a time in the state of New York they remcved to Ohio. Here in the year 1862 Thomas Leak was united in marriage to Miss Apn Atyeo, a daughter of 1saac and Ann (Barrington) Atyeo. The parents had eight children, Ann, John, William, George, James, Charlctte, Isaac and Mary. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Leak has been blessed with two daughters and three sons, Ann, Charles, Edward, William and Alice.

Following his marriage Thomas Leak took up the occupation of farming as a life work and through that avenue of business has provided a comfortable living for those depending upon him. He has manifested a spirit of unfaltering diligence and perseverznce in the development and improvement of his land and year after year through the careful cultivation of his fields he won that success which follows persistent, earnest effort. Prospering in his undertakings he became the owner of a farm of one hundred and fourteen acres in Ripley township, which he still owns and which returns him a gratifying annual income. He is well known as a man of financial responsibility, his name ever being an honored one on commercial paper.

In his political views Mr. Leak has always been a republican since age conferred upcn him the right of franchise although he has never been an office seeker he has always been loyal in his allegiance to the principles which he espouses. Both he and his wife are members of the Christian church, in which he is serving as deacon and their support of the church is generous and their cooperation in its various activities is a valuable element in its growth.

William B. Claus

William B. Claus is the owner of one hundred acres, constituting one of the best farms of Peru township. He is diligent and determined in the prosecution of his business affairs and his close application and energy are bringing to him success which he justly merits. He is a young man but already has made for himseli a creditable name in agricultural circles. He was born in Sherman township, Huron county, November 15, 1880, and in both the paternal and maternal lines comes of German ancestry. His parents were Mathias and Josephine (Schank) Claus, both of whom were natives of Germany. The father, who was born October 20, 1834, was a son of Mathias and Mary Claus, who in the year 1852, crossed the Atlantic to America and made their way to Huron county, Ohio, settling in Sherman township, where they purchased forty acres of land. On this place was an old log house, which the father occupied for about five years, when the property was sold and another farm was purchased. On the second place, also in Sher- township, the grandparents spent their remaining days. The grandmother was only about forty years of age at the time of her demise, but the grandfather reached the venerable age of eighty-two years. Their family numbered a daughter and three sons: Mrs. Helen Fisher, who is now a widow and resides in Belle vue, Martin, a resident farmer of Sherman township ; Mathias ; and George, who is also living in Sherman township.

Mathias Claus, the father of our subject, was a young lad in his teens wheu he accompanied his parents on their removal from Germany to the new world. He had attended school in his native land and for a brief period continued his studies in this country, but his time and attention were largely given to farm work after he reached the United States. He has always carried on general agricultural pursuits and his labors have been attended with gratifying success. He married Miss Josephine Schank, a daughter of Frank and Helen Schank, of Sherman township, the wedding being celebrated January 7, 1867. Mrs. Claus was born in Germany, February 14, 1846, and came to Huron country with her parents when eighteen years of age, the family home being established in Norwalk township, where her father purchased land and developed a farm. He died there at the age of seventy-five years, but the mother passed away in Germany when forty-two years of age. Mr. and Mrs. Mathias Claus are still residents of Sherman township and have lived upon one farm for about forty years. He has always been loyal and progressive in his citizenship and in 1864, he espoused the cause of his adopted country, enlisting as a member of Company C, Sixty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He joined the regiment at Sandusky and then went to Camp Chase and afterward participated in a number of battles and skirmishes. He was in the engagement at Nashville, Franklin and other places and was mustered out at Nashville in 1865. After the close of the war, he returned home and has since carried on general farming. He has worked diligently and persistently to attain the success which he now enjoys and his honest and upright life have won for him a firm hold on the regard and affections of his fellow townsmen. He has been active in community affairs as a member of the school board and as road supervisor and was called to this office as a candidate of the republican party. His religious faith is that of the Catholic church. Unto him and his wife were born nine children: Frank, who is living at home; Carrie, the wife of Frank A. Heddle, a resident of Monroeville, Ohio, by whom she has four children: Clarice, Loretta, Irene and Walter ; Mary, who is the wife of John Rossman, of Monroeville and has two children: Olive and Lucile; Josephine, who is the wife of Ed S. of Peru township, and has one child, Beatrice; William, of this review'; Louise, at home; Joe. who is in Pennsylvania; and Emma and Fred, both at home.

William B. Claus was reared on the old homestead farm in Sherman township, where he remained until twenty-two years of age, since which time he has lived in Peru township. In his youthful days, he enjoyed such sports as engross the attention of the children of the neighborhood and improved the opportunities for acquiring an education in the public schools. He also received ample training at farm work and determined to make the occupation to which he was reared his life work. companion and helpmate for life's journey, he chose Miss Florence Holliday, who was born in Toledo, Ohio, and is a daughter of Mr. and Mrs.

William Holliday, who are now residents of Norwalk, Ohio. In their family were six children, the eldest of whom is Mrs. Claus, the others being: William, Carl, Edward, Esther and Wanda. 'The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Clause occurred April 15, 1902, and unto them have been born three children: Calla, Donald and Josephine.

It was in 1905 that Mr. Claus purchased his present farm, on which he has since made a number of substantial improvements. He has here one hundred acres of rich land which is divided into fields of convenient size by well kept fences. He studies the demands of the soil, knows what is most needed for the production of various cereals and by the rotation of crops keeps his land in good condition. He has made a number of improvements upon his place, utilizes modern machinery to facilitate the work of the fields and is now successfully engaged in general farming. He belongs to the Catholic church of Peru township and is known as a man of business reliability as well as of enterprise.

Charles. Brant

One of the prosperous farmers of Greenfield township, who has taken an active part in local affairs, is Charles J. Brant, who owns the one hundred and thirteen acres on which he lives. He was born in this township, May 16, 1848, and is the son of John K. and Catherine (Glasford) Brant. The former was of eastern birth but was only a young boy when his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Jabe Brant, came to Ohio and settled near Readtown. John K. Brant lived in Greenfield township the greater part of his life and became one of its well known and highly respected citizens. He devoted himself to farming, acquired two hundred and eleven acres of land and served as township trustee and as a member of the school board for a number of years. He was a man who advocated progress and the road on which his son's farm lies was cut as the result of his efforts. His wife was born in New York state and was only a child when her parents, John and Cynthia Glasford, removed to Ohio, casting in their lot with the early settlers of Greenfield township. Four children were born to John K. and Catherine Brant: Cynthia, who married Edwin Wiles, both now deceased ; Charles ].; Francis, who lives in Kansas; and George, of Norwalk. The life of the wife and mother was brought to a close in 1899, when she was in her seventy-sixth year, and her husband survived her until December 6, 1906, when he was called to his final rest.

Greenfield township has been the home of Charles J. Brant through all his life. At the old log school house of the district he received his training in the fundamentals of English education. It was meager enough equipment for life, even though it was supplemented with good home training in the way of farming. For many years Mr. Brant operated on rented land, but in the fall of 1893 purchased of George Strimple the farm he now occupies. This he has since greatly improved, both as to buildings and as regards the condition of the land itself. He has studied his soil with the intention of obtaining from it the best results, has practiced a scientific rotation of crops, employs the most up-to-date machinery, and in other ways has kept abreast of the progress that has been made in the methods of agriculture as in other branches of business.

On the 2d of July, 1873, Mr. Brant was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Boice, a daughter of John and Eleanor (Barlow) Boice. The former was a native of Belmont county, Ohio, and was sixty-five years of age when he died in 1879. In his family were four children: Drusilla, deceased; Elisha, deceased; Sarah and William, of this township. Mrs. Brant's mother died when she was but five years old and she went to live with her uncle, George Stetson, of New London, returning in later life to live with her father. She has become the mother of six children: Mary, born May 8, 1874, died March 26, 1886; Ella is the wife of William Gamble, of Chicago, Ohio, and the mother of three children, Lawrence, Dale and Wilma, deceased; Fannie married George Lindsey, of Toledo, and they have four children, Florence, Gladys, Eulalie and Thelma; Ethel is the wife of G. Gamble, of Norwalk, Ohio; Pearl is the wife of Frank Wolfe, of Richmond township; and Catherine married Ross Keesey, also of Richmond township.

A successful farmer and well known, Mr. Brant has on many occasions the citizens' choice for the several offices at their disposal in the township. Among those he has filled may be mentioned that of road supervisor and of school director, and his administration was distinguished by thought for the public welfare and a commendable spirit of progress.

Edward L. Conger

Edward L. Conger, a prosperous farmer of Greenfield township, Huron county, and the owner of ninety acres of land on which he lives, was born in this township and is the son of Lewis L. and Isabelle (Lowther) Conger. The father was born September 8, 1824, at Ludlowville, New York, and in 1833 came with his parents to Milan, Ohio, where his father started a mill, there working until 1850, when the family removed to Greenfield township, and twenty years later purchased the farm which was his home until his death and has since been the home of his widow. On his mother's side Mr. Conger is descended from a line of pioneers. His great-grandfather, Henry Lowther, was of Irish birth and came to this country at the time of the rebellion in his home land. He settled in New York state, where he followed the vocation of farming and attained to a prosperity and position among his associates that was above the average. one occasion, however, he lost a large sum, which was the result of years of toil, when a friend, who had appealed to him for aid, jumped his bond. His son, Edward H. Lowther, was born in New York city in 1800 and was seventeen years of age when he came to Greenfield township, to make it his home. He attained considerable local prominence, was known as Captain Lowther from his being a captain of the militia, and held several offices in the township. His wife, who survived him but a year, was born in Huntingdon county, Pennsylvania, but came to Ohio when the fields were covered with forests and Indians were seen almost daily. She died in 1887, after having brought into the world a family of seven children: Thomas, deceased;

Mariette, the widow of Ira Watterman ; Isabelle, the mother of our subject ; Sarah, the widow of William Graham; Helen, the deceased wife of Barnett Rowe; and James. To Mr. and Mrs. Conger were born four children: Edward Halsy, who died at the age of five months ; Julia, the deceased wife of Charles Palmer and the mother of two children, Florence and Charles; and Lewis, who married Miss Ada Daly, of this township, and has one child, Frances J. Mr. Conger died November 1899, but his widow still lives and conducts the farm he had bought.

Greenfield township has been the home of Edward L. Conger during all his life. He was born a deaf and dumb mute and attended the school for mutes at Columbus. While there he learned the trade of a shoemaker but has never worked at that occupation, having followed agriculture instead, Along this line he has been very successful, his fields producing as abundantly and the buildings being in as good repair as if he were not handicapped in the battle of life, and rightly so, for it is industry and hard work that counts, thus beinz able to surmount obstacles that might otherwise overwhelm one.

In 1871, while in school in Columbus, Mr. Conger met Miss Nellie Hall, also a pupil at the mutes' institution and a daughter of Peter and Elizabeth Hall, of South Lebanon, Pennsylvania. On the 8th of May, 1870, at her home, was read the service that made the two young people man and wife in the eyes of the law. Their union has been blessed with two children: Mary Bell, born May 13, 1883, and Ray, born August 30, 1887.

Mr. Conger is a member of St. Paul's Episcopal church and all his life and actions are ordered by what he believes to be the right and in accord with the teachings of his religion. He is a fine man, imbued with many noble traits of character, and those who know him hold him in high regard.

Calvin C. Brooks

Calvin C. Brooks, successful because of his unfaltering determination and inde'atigable industry, now lives on a farm of eighty-eight acres in Peru township, from which property he derives his substantial annual income. He is one of the native sons of the county, his birth having occurred in Greenfield township on the 20th of April, 1860. His parents were William and Sophronia (Parsons) Brooks, The father, who was born in Vermont in 1809, came to Ohio with his parents when a young man and settled about three miles north of Chicago Junction. There he developed a good farm property, owning at one time about three hundred acres of land. His wife was a native of the state of New York and she, too, came with her parents to Huron county, the family home being established in Greenfield township. The death of William Brooks occurred in 1869, when he was sixty years of age, and his widow, surviving him for about thirty-five years, died in the fall of 1904. They were the parents of nine children: Francis L., who is now living in Fayette county, Pennsylvania; Mortimer, a resident of Oklahoma ; Darwin, living at Steuben, Ohio; Mrs. Lucy France, who is a widow now located at Oklahoma ; Parsons, deceased; Augustine, residing in Peru township; Calvin C.; Kate, the

Calvin C. Brooks was reared in Greenfield township to the age of twenty-nine years and in his youthful days attended the district schools, his time being divided between the duties of the schoolroom, the pleasures of the playground and the work of the home farm. Since putting aside his text-books his entire time has been devoted to general farming. He went to Wisconsin a number of years ago and took up one hundred and sixty acres of land, upon which he lived for five years, when he sold that property. He also worked at Spokane Falls, Washington, and after a brief sojourn on the Pacific coast he returned to Ohio and purchased his present farm from George Barman. He has since made a number of improvements the property and is busily engaged in the work of general farming, transforming the place into rich and productive fields, from which he annually gathers gcod harvests.

Mr. Brooks married Miss Kathryn Sysel, a daughter of James and Kathryn (Extine) Sysel, natives of Bohemia. This marriage was celebrated February 20, 1895, and unto them have been born seven children: Blanch, William, Ralph, May, Gladys, Elsie and Grace. Of this family all are yet living with the exception of Elsie and Blanch. Mrs. Brooks was born in Bohemia and when fourteen years of age came to this country with some relatives, her parents always remaining in their native land. Her father is still living there at the age of eighty years, but the mother died June 28, 1895. They were the parents of seven children: James, who is now in Minnesota ; Mary, a resident of Bohemia ; Anna, who is also in Minnesota ; Jacob, deceased; Kathryn, now Mrs. Brooks; and George and Joseph, both of whom are in Bohemia. By a former marriage Mr. Brooks had a daughter, Elizabeth Bell, who is now the wife of Fred Porter and lives in Waseon, Ohio. They have two children, Sylvester and Daniel. By her former marriage Mrs. Brooks had two daughters, Jennie and Agnes, who are now living with our subject.

Mr. Brooks is interested in the cause of education and has served as school director for a number of years, doing all in his power to advance the cause of public instruction. His political allegiance is given to the democracy, which finds in him a stalwart champion, but he does not seek nor desire office, preferring to concentrate his energies upon his business affairs.

Martin Ellis

One of the men who has made a success of general farming in Greenwich township, is Martin Ellis, a member of one of the pioneer families of Ohio. He is the son of John and Rachel (Rickard) Ellis, whose parents were originally residents of Onondaga county, New York, and came to Mansfield, Ohio, in the early pioneer days, where the father followed the carpenter's trade for some years. At length, having accumulated the necessary funds, he bought one hundred acres in Greenwich township, Huron county, and took up the active life of the general farmer of that day. Game was very plentiful in the earlier years of his residence here and John Ellis secured many a deer with his ever present rifle. Although he had but twenty-five cents in cash and a small chest of carpenter's tools when he arrived in Ohio, before his death he became the owner of fully six hundred acres of Huron county land, well stocked and improved. Seven of the eight children of this pioneer family grew to maturity: Sidney, Thirsa, John R., Martin, Leona, Pauline, Hiram and Sarah, but the only ones now living are Martin, Pauline and Sarah. In March, 1890, at the age of seventy-three, the father, noted for his great moral and physical courage, and a respected participator in public affairs, was laid away by the side of the mother, who had died in 1887 and was buried in Ripley cemetery.

Martin Ellis was born on the old homestead in Greenwich township, May r3, 1847, and secured his education in the district schools of that township. He served the usual apprenticeship of the farmer lad until he was twenty, when he started out in life for himself. On December 28, 1871, was celebrated his marriage to Mary E. Stotts, who was the daughter of James and Eliza (Titus) Stotts, of Ripley township. To Mr. and Mrs. Ellis have been born two sons: James H., deceased, and Ray.

Mr. Ellis settled on his own land soon after marriage and at present holds the title to one hundred and twenty acres of well tilled, well improved and well stocked farm land. He does not need to specialize, as all of the varied interests of the general farmer have succeeded under his hand. He has been amply aided by his son, Ray, who bids fair to make as good a farmer as his parent. He was married September r, 1909, to Miss Lotha McCarty, a daughter of George and Mary (Swope) McCarty of Greenwich township. He is a member of Greenwich Lodge, No. 543, F. & A. M., and also a member of the Knights of the Maccabees.

The democratic party claims Mr. Ellis' allegiance, and he has been consistently active in public affairs, serving as road overseer and member of the board of education. While not a member of any church, he yet supports the cause of religion, and is always interested in all matters which are for the benefit of the race. He is referred to as one of the best farmers of the county and is universally respected for his progressiveness,

Otto Boehler

excellent farm of one hundred and forty-two acres in Lyme township, this county, pays tribute to the care and labor of Otto Boehler, who in his business interests is meeting with well merited success. He was born in Peru township, Huron county, September 5, 1869, a son of Phillip and Marguerita (Seibel) Boehler, natives of Germany. The former, who was born November 7, 1824, arrived in the United States in 1848 and settled in Huron county, Ohio, being employed in Peru township for about three years. He subsequently owned property in Lyme township, which he so!d, and later purchased a farm in Sherman township, which in turn he disposed of and secured a farm in Peru township. At the time of his death, which occurred May 3, 1897, in Monroeville, Ridgefield township, he was recognized as an extensive landowner. He was first married to Miss Mary Seibel, a native of Germany, who was born April 1831, and after her death he was united in marriage to Miss Jeanetta The children of the first union were William, Henry, Phillip, Otto, Minnie and Louise, all of whom still survive.

To the district schools of Peru township and also of Monroeville, Ridgefield township, Otto Boehler is indebted for his education, and he also learned many practical and valuable lessons while assisting in the work of the farm during the periods of vacation. He remained at home until 1890, when he began working for G. G. Horn, with whom he was connected for two years. He then began business on his own account, taking charge of the farm upon which he now resides, It was given to him by his father who had, in 1871, purchased the tract from a Mr. Smith. It is an excellent farm of one hundred and forty-two acres, upon which Mr. Boehler has placed many improvements. He is industrious, enterprising and persevering, and his good management of his business interests is bringing him substantial success.

On the 7th of January, 1892, Mr. Boehler was united in marriage to Miss Emma Horn, a daughter of Philip and Catherine (Seel) Horn, old German settlers of this county. She is a native of Lyme township, born March 18, 1871, and by her marriage became the mother of three children: Clarence, born October 25, 1892; Alma, born June 11, 1896; and Adolph, born November 20, 1898. The family is still unbroken by the hand of death, and all are yet at home.

The religious faith of Mr. Boehler is indicated in his membership in the Lutheran church, while fraternally he is connected with the Woodmen of the World Camp, No. 40. He has never sought to figure in a public light, yet his devotion to the public welfare is unquestioned, arising as it does from a sincere desire for the substantial and permanent growth of the community. Honest and upright in all of his business dealings, he has won the respect and good will of his fellowmen, while his sterling qualities have gained for him a wide circle of warm friends.

Benjamin F. Beck

The rich farming land of Huron county yields ready response to the care and labors of the agriculturist and if the farmer is wise and prudent he may in the course of years gain a substantial competence as the direct result of his labors. Such has been the history of Benjamin F. Beck, who is now living in North Fairfield but in former years was closely associated with general farming. He started upon the journey of life in 1851, his birth having occurred in New Haven township, Huron county. His parents were Jacob and Mary (Berlin) Beck, who were numbered among the pioneer residents of the county, settling here when the work of progress and development seemed scarcely begun. The Becks have always been thrifty people and Benjamin Beck was reared to habits of perseverance, industry and economy. His education was acquired in the district schools of the neighborhood and through the periods of vacation he worked in the fields as he assisted in the operations of the home farm. He was thus well qualified to take charge of a farm of his own when he started out in life for himself.

As companion helpmate for life's journey Mr. Beck chose Miss Hulda Sothern, a daughter of James P. and Mary Elizabeth (Stiles) Sothern. Her peo- ple, too, arrived in Huron county in pioneer times and her father was active in the early development of this part of the state. Mr. and Mrs. Beck began their domestic life upon a farm and as the years passed Mr. Beck diligently and persistently carried on his work. He studied the matter of rotating crops, came to know the properties of the soil and what was needed for the production of different cereals. His farm work was thus intelligently directed and brought to him the prosperity which now enables him to live retired.

William S. Ruggles, who is the owner of a sawmiil and one hundred and thirty-two acres of land in Peru township, on which he lives, was born on this farm, March 31, 1853. He is a son of George W. and Mary Elizabeth (Snyder) Ruggles. His grandparents, Joseph and Mary Ruggles, came to Huron county from the state of New York, traveling overland with a yoke of oxen in I815, bringing with them the several children who had been born unto them in the east. They resided about a half mile east of the place on which William S. Ruggles now makes his home, and for a few years they lived in a little barn on the Henry Adams farm, which they converted into a rude dwelling, occupying it until Joseph Ruggles purchased the place which is now the home of our subject. It was a tract of timberland when it came into his possession but he at once began to clear away the trees and the brush and, in the midst of the forest, built a log house. It was abount 1817 that he established his home there and as time passed he vigorously prosecuted the work of the farm, transforming the tract of forest land into richly cultivated fields. Subsequently he built and operated the first cidermill in the county and was closely associated with the work of early development and improvement. He died in 1849 at the age of sixty-nine years, while his wife passed away in 1850.

George W. Ruggles, the father, also lived in Peru township and for many years made his home above the old cidermill. In the early days he pursued his studies in one of the log schools of the township wherein but a few branches of learning were taught. Although his educational opportunities were limited his training in farm work was not meager and throughout his entire life he continued to actively till the soil. His lack of early educational advantages was obviated by the fact that he remained throughout his entire life a great reader and thus added continuously to his knowledge. His wife was born in Milan, Ohio, a daughter of William and Mary (Norris) Snyder, who were early settlers of Huron country, coming to Ohio from Pennsylvania. The death of Mrs Ruggles occurred July 1, 1905. She was the mother of five children, namely : Mary B., the wife of James Clifford of Findlay, Ohio; William S., of this review; Walter and Charles, both deceased; and Loretta E., the wife of Frank Schlagater, of Bronson township.

William S. Ruggles has always lived upon the home place, the district being known as Ruggles Corners. He attended the schools of the neighborhood in his early days and throughout his entire life has carried on general farming and has also operated a sawmill for about twenty years. He married Miss Alice J. Owen, a daughter of Lafayette and Mary ]. (Clark) Owen, of Greenfield township, the wedding being celebrated on the 3oth of August, 1876. Mrs. Ruggles was born in Greenfield township, where her parents lived until they were called to their final rest. Unto our subject and his wife have been born two children: J. C., whose birth occurred February 2, 1885, and who married Ethel Baxter, their home being now in Peru township; and Harry, who was born February 19, 1889, and is still under the parental roof.

As he prospered in his undertakings William S. Ruggles purchased the old homestead from his father and has since made many substantial improvements upon the place. He has built a fine barn, has remodeled the house and has added all of the accessories and conveniences known to the model farm of the twentieth century. In 1802 the sawmill which he owned near his home was destroyed by fire and he then built a steam sawmill on his farm, which he operated until 1902. In that year he sold out and two years later installed a gasoline engine and again entered the business of sawing lumber, which proves a profitable source of revenue to him. His fields, too, are carefully cultivated and return rich crops, which find a ready sale on the market.

Mr. Ruggles has been somewhat prominent community affairs. He served as township trustee for five years, having been elected on the republican ticket by a majority of twenty-nine in a township which usually gives over one hundred democratic majority, his election, therefore, plainly indicating his personal popularity and the confidence and trust reposed in him. He has also served as school director and as road supervisor, and he withholds his cooperation from no measure or movement which he deems essential to the public good. He is a trustee of the Universalist church of Peru township and for twenty years has been a member of the Royal Arcanum of Norwalk. He represents one of the oldest families of the county, the name of Ruggles having ever stood in this community for progressive citizenship and for enterprise in business. The record of William S. Ruggles is in harmony with that of the others of the name and he is now numbered among the representative and valued citizens of Huron county.

Louis P. Heyman

Louis P. Heyman, who has but recently retired from the active cultivation of the hundred and forty-five acres he owns in Lyme township, Huron county, was born on this farm, March ro, 1857, a son of John P. and Jeanette (Scheide) Heyman. Both parents were born in Germany, the father July 9, 1833, the mother April 19, 1837, but both came to this country so early in life that they are numbered among the pioneers of this county. The mother was but fifteen when she came with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Scheide, to Peru township. John P. Heyman came to America in 1848, with his father, settling at Hunts Corners, Ohio, where his brother Philip had located the year previous and had bought about fifty-five acres of land. There the old people died, the grandfather in 1881, though not until after he had made a name for himself in the community, for he and his two sons, John and Philip, together owned about three hundred acres and were among those who contributed largely, both in gifts of land and money, to the establishment of the Reformed church. In fact the edifice was erected on part of the fifty-five acres which Philip had bought on coming to this county.

John P. Heyman was a prominent farmer in his locality. He was also interested in the Heyman Milling Company, of Monroeville, and as a school director and road superintendent served the people well for a long term of years. Likewise he was prominent in the Reformed church he had helped to build, having been an elder for a number of years and a deacon at the time of his death. When his earthly course was done, on the 19th of October, 1899, he was accounted one of the most prosperous farmers in his locality, being possessed of about four hundred acres. In April, 1856, he married Miss Jeanette Scheide, who bore him nine children: Lewis P.; Frank, deceased; F. D.; William O.; Jennie, deceased; Julia, the wife of William Kern; Flora, the wife of Calvin Heyman; Lillian, who married James Clinton; and one who died in infancy.

Louis P. Heyman has always lived in Lyme township. He attended the district schools in the acquirement of an education and worked on the farm with his father during his youth. In 1898 he bought the place from his father, making it his own home to the present time. Since his acquisition of the property he has made many extensive improvements, one of them being the erection of a large and handsome residence. Although he has devoted himself with such diligence to the demands of his farm and is accounted one of the most successful agriculturists of this township, he has yet found time to serve the people as justice of the peace for a period of ten years, as constable, besides filling some other minor offices. He is vice-president and a director of the Heyman Milling Company, of Monroeville, and also a director of the Sherman Gas & Oil Company. Being very fond of good horses, one of his chief delights is in driving.

On the 18th of November, 1885, Mr. Heyman was married to Miss Elizabeth Hartman, a daughter of George and Cornelia (Mook) Hartman, of Bellevue, Ohio. Her parents were natives of Pennsylvania, the father born in 1828, the mother in 1831, and they were among the early settlers here, arriving long before anything approaching the present conveniences of travel came into vogue the journey being made from their old home to Black Swamp, Sandusky county, in ox cart. Mr. Hartman died in 1900, and his wife survived him but two years. In their family were three children, Isabelle, Frank and Elizabeth. The last named, who is now Mrs. Heyman, was graduated from the Bellevue high school and for several years successfully engaged in teaching. She and her husband still take an active interest in educational affairs and are giving their children the best possible advantages along that line, while Mr. Heyman is also doing effective service as a member of the board of education. They have two daughters, Mabel and Ruth, and the former is a graduate of the Bellevue high school and also of Heidelberg University at Tiffin, Ohio, of the class of 1908, receiving the degree of L. B. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Heyman were also born two sons, but Floyd, who was born April 25, 1891, died on the 21st of the following August;

Mr. Heyman is prominent in all the work of the Reformed church, of which he has been an elder and trustee for a number of years and his wife is also an active church worker, serving as assistant superintendent of the Sunday school and devoting some time every week to instructing a class in Bible study. In short, Mr. Heyman and his family are well and favorably known. He has now laid aside the active duties of life, bui the record of his past, both as a private citizen and as a servant of the people, is an enviable one.

Charles H. Wheaton

A history of Norwalk township would not be complete without mention of Charles H. Wheaton, who for many years has been known as one of the best judges and successful buyers of stock in Huron county. He was born in England on the 5th of February, 1840, and is a son of Daniel Wheaton, who came to America the early '50s and first took up his residence Monroeville, while a few months. later he removed to Norwalk. He was a butcher by occupation, and after his arrival in Norwalk he rented a building of Lester Clark, where he started in the meat business, continuing in this line of activity for many years, when the business was taken charge of by his two sons, Charles and Dennis. He was known as one of the best judges of stock, not only in England, but also in this country. Ere coming to America he had conducted a market in Cambridge College Place, where he engaged principally in supplying the colleges. He was eminently a business man, possessing keen sagacity and good management, and he became identified with various enterprises, all of which became factors in his subsequent success. About a year after his arrival in Norwalk he purchased the farm of ninety-six acres upon: which our subject now resides, this property having been in the family since 1852. Later he purchased the De Walt property, where Harkness and surrounding buildings now stand, including the row of brick cottages extending to Seminary street. He bought from Mr. Underhill the old American Hotel property, which site is now covered by the three stores commencing at Frazier's and extending east. This property is now owned by the estate. He also invested in three stores in Huron, which are now in the possession of his son Dennis E. Wheaton. He was a member of the Baptist church and affiliated with the democratic party, and was considered one of the alert and progressive citizens of his community. He passed away in 1898, leaving a very handsome estate.